The Maritime University of Szczecin offers a four-year Navigation programme consisting of 8 semesters. The total number of course hours is 2909, which includes lectures, classes, and laboratories. The programme is designed for those who want to pursue a career in the marine industry and is compliant with the International Convention on Standards of Training, Certification and Watchkeeping for Seafarers (STCW).
The curriculum is accredited by both the Polish Ministry of Education and international bodies supervising marine education. On graduation, students receive the Officer of the Watch rank (OOW), which is one of the first steps in their seafaring career. This saves them two years of additional education that would be required to achieve the same rank with diplomas from other universities.
Students can participate in the ERASMUS+ programme, which enables them to go for a two-month training period to a company abroad, regardless of their nationality. Graduates of the Navigation programme are recognized worldwide and can start working aboard any ship under the flag of any country. With over five years of sea service, they can become captains of any sea-going or inland vessel after passing a central exam.
Career opportunities for graduates of the Navigation programme include working with sea and inland water vessels, international shipping, merchant fleet, fishing fleet, passenger ships, oil drilling and production platforms, on-shore operation and technical services, maritime administration, classification institutions, and Search and Rescue (SAR) services.
Marine training is a vital step for those dreaming of a career at sea. It prepares candidates for life at sea by providing both practical and theoretical knowledge. This training is necessary for anyone pursuing a career in the maritime service.